Bicycle Types: How to Pick the Best Bike for You - Century Cycles - Cleveland & Akron OH Bicycle Types: How to Pick the Best Bike for You So Many Choices When trying to decide on the best type of bike, think about these questions: Who do you ride with? What do they ride? What have you had in the past that you liked? What have you had in the past that you disliked? What would you like to do with your new bike? If you are buying a bike to ride with a group of friends, buy something similar to what they ride. You will not be able to keep up with road bikes if you are on a mountain bike or cruiser. And a road bike cannot go on the dirt or the sand. If you enjoyed a three speed as a child, you may find this a fun bike again. If you disliked the road bike you bought a few years ago, perhaps a mountain bike would be better. Road Bikes Road bicycles are designed to be ridden fast on smooth pavement. They have smooth, skinny tires and "drop" handlebars, and can be used for on-road racing. They are usually lighter than other types of bicycles.

They can be ridden on paved trails, but most people find them uncomfortable and unstable on unpaved trails. Most road bikes are not capable of carrying heavy loads. Cyclocross bicycles are a special type of road bike designed to be ridden on mixed surfaces (combination of pavement, unpaved trails, gravel, grass). They have a drop handlebar like regular road bikes, but the tires are a littler wider for more off-road traction, and they have a different style of brake that helps to prevent mud buildup in the frame. Cyclocross bikes make good commuter bikes, because of the versatility, durability, and in most cases, the ability to carry light loads. Cyclocross bicycles are sometimes called 'cross bikes or cx bikes for short. Touring bicycles are another special type of road bike. They are designed to be ridden on pavement, but are more durable for use on self-supported long-distance riding. They have all of the necessary mounting bolts for cargo racks and fenders, and although they still have a drop handlebar, they usually have a more relaxed frame design so that the rider is more upright, for more comfort when riding long distances for multiple days at a time.

They have a lower gear range compared to regular road bikes, to allow for carrying heavy loads up steep hills. They also make good commuter bicycles, because of their durability and ability to carry heavy loads. Triathlon/Time Trial Bicycles are road bikes with a special design that maximizes their aerodynamic properties. The handlebars are also a special aerodynamic design that allows you to crouch forward while riding, to minimize the wind resistance against your body. Triathlon/time trial races usually have staggered starts, where each racer starts on his/her own; these bicycles are usually not allowed to be used in mass-start races. Flat-Bar Road Bicycles have most of the advantages of regular road bikes--lightweight frames and relatively narrow tires for efficiency on pavement--with a flat or upright handlebar. These bikes are designed for people who want a light, high-performance bike, but don't like the drop-handlebar riding position of a regular road bike. These bicycles are sometimes called fitness bikes or performance hybrid bikes. Most of them can accept somewhat wider tires, to make them suitable for use on unpaved trails. They usually have the ability to mount cargo racks and fenders, which make them good commuter bikes.

Track/Fixed-Gear Bicycles or fixies are designed to be ridden on a velodrome, which is a banked oval track specifically for bicycle racing. Some commuters prefer track bikes, however, due to their simple design, which makes them easy to maintain. They have a single gear that does not provide the ability to coast, so if the bike is moving, your feet must be pedaling. For even more simplicity, some riders prefer to not have brakes, since the fixed-gear mechanism can act as a brake. Most track bikes have drop handlebars, but some riders outfit theirs with flat or upright handlebars. Mountain Bikes Mountain Bicycles are design for riding rough off-road trails. They have flat or upright handlebars, and a very low gear range for pedaling up steep trails. Most mountain bikes have some type of shock absorbers or suspension. Mountain bikes with front suspension only are called hardtails; mountain bikes with both front and rear suspension are called full-suspension bikes or duallies. Mountain bikes with no suspension are called rigid. Mountain bikes can be outfitted for use as touring or commuting bikes, although they would not be as light or efficient as traditional touring or commuting bikes.

Hybrid Bikes Hybrid Bicycles were originally conceived to provide the advantages of both road bikes and mountain bikes. Their large, padded seats and upright handlebars provide a comfortable riding position, and are best for casual riding around the neighborhood or bike paths, short-distance commuting, and errands around town. They can be ridden on paved roads, but are not as lightweight or efficient as road bikes. They are ideal for paved or unpaved bike trails, but are not appropriate for rough off-road mountain bike trails. The tires are usually a medium-width with a semi-smooth tread, to provide a fairly smooth ride on pavement, but enough grip and cushion on unpaved trails. Most hybrid bikes have front suspension to smooth out small bumps, but some are fully rigid. Hybrid bikes used to also be referred to as cross bikes, but that term is not used any more in order to avoid confusion with cyclocross bikes (see above). Performance Hybrid Bicycles are oriented towards riders who want the multi-surface versatility of a hybrid bike, but want a little more aggressive style and riding position.

They have a flat or upright handlebar, although not as upright as regular hybrid bikes; they usually have a smaller, more performance-oriented seat, rather than a large comfort seat. Some have front suspension; some do not. Performance hybrids make good commuter bikes, and are also good for touring on unpaved trails. There is much overlap between the performance hybrid category and flat-bar road bikes (see above); the terms are almost used interchangeably. Cruiser Bikes Cruiser Bicycles are similar to hybrid bikes, in that they are designed for casual riding, and have a very comfortable, upright riding position, and a large, comfortable seat. Cruisers usually have wide "balloon" tires, and handlebars that are even more upright, and in some cases, swept back compared to hybrid bikes. Most cruiser bikes are single-speed or 3-speed, and have the old-fashioned coaster brake (where you pedal backwards to stop). They can be used for short-distance commuting and errands, as long as your route is fairly flat. Some cruiser bike manufacturers make a wide array of colorful models available, to suit the fashion tastes of any bike afficionado. Flat-Foot Comfort Bikes are a sub-category of cruiser bikes.

They have an elongated frame design that pushes the pedals a few inches forward of the seat. This allows you to ride with the seat low enough so that you can place your feet flat on the ground when you are stopped, but you still get the full extension of your legs while pedaling. All Electra Bicycle Company bikes have the flat-foot technology; some other manufacturers have created their own flat-foot designs. City Bikes The term "city bike" doesn't really refer to a specific category of bikes; it's more of a general descriptive term. They might also be called "commuter" or "urban" bikes, although any of the bikes listed on this page can be used quite well for riding and commuting in a city. However, there is a certain type of bike that most people have in mind when they use the term "city bike." This bike has characteristics of both a hybrid bike and a cruiser bike--usually the upright riding position of a cruiser, but the wheel size of a hybrid bike.

A city bike might also have some or all of these features that make it more amenable to riding in regular clothes, as opposed to cycling-specific clothing: Fenders Chain guard Skirt guard on rear wheel A city bike might also have an internally-geared rear hub for ease of use and maintenance, and a built-in generator and lights for safety when riding after dark. These bikes are also sometimes called "Dutch bikes," because of their resemblance to the everyday bikes used in Amsterdam and other bike-friendly European cities. BMX Bikes BMX Bikes are popular with kids because of their small size, but they are used by adults and kids alike for various styles of trick and stunt riding. Folding Bikes Folding Bicycles are ideal for those who need to travel with their bike, want a bike to keep on their boat or plane, or who live in small apartments and don't have a lot of storage space. They're also good for commuters who need to take their bike on a bus or train for part of their commute, or who don't have a safe place to park their bike at work.

Most folding bikes have smaller wheels, which makes the bike a little less efficient and trickier to handle than a standard bike, but most folding bike fans feel the benefits outweigh the disadvantages. Recumbent Bikes Recumbent Bicycles have a long, low design and a full-size seat with a backrest. Recumbents are available in two-wheel and three-wheel designs. Many recumbent riders feel that they are the most comfortable option available for bicycling. However, they are more difficult to pedal up hills, and they can be a challenge to carry from one place to another in a motor vehicle. Tandem Bikes Tandem Bicycles are "bicycles built for two." They come in all styles, from cruiser tandems and hybrid tandems for the bike path or boardwalk, off-road mountain bike tandems, and high-performance road racing tandems. Adult Tricycles Adult Trikes are ideal for older folks who still want to get around under their own power, or those with balance issues or other special needs. They are also popular in environmentally-consious industrial/warehouse applications. All site content © 2016 Century Cycles, Inc. unless otherwise indicated.

What Are the Different Types of BMX Bikes? | eBay What Are the Different Types of BMX Bikes? Share March 3, 2016 Out of all the sports available to the average person in the United States and around the world, BMX biking is perhaps one of the most accessible and fun. While there are plenty of opportunities for stunt riding, these maneuvers are not necessarily to learn if the rider isn't into that sort of thing. Alternatively, the sky is literally the limit if a biker wants to try out extreme stunt biking styles. In this guide, we explore the different types of BMX bikes and their various uses, along with some of the essential accessories that all BMX riders, serious or not so serious, should be wearing. There is also a handy section about purchasing BMX bikes and related accessories on eBay. The History of BMX Bikes BMX biking is otherwise known as "bicycle motocross," and was influenced heavily by the motorcycle motocross of the early 20th-century. Below is a brief history of BMX biking and its many forms. Early BMX Bikes BMX bikes are not as youthful a bicycle style as many people think.

In fact, their history goes all the way back to the 1920s. Early BMX bikes were not actually built to be BMX bikes. Instead, riders took the initiative themselves, modifying regular bikes until BMX versions became available to buy in the early 1960's. Knobbed tires and primitive rear-wheel suspension became staples of the first BMX bikes. The Dawn of the Official BMX Era When the first official BMX bikes became available to buy in the 1960s, they flew out of the stores like hotcakes. The Stingray BMX, by Schwinn, was released in 1963 and became an immediate hit with youngsters all over the U.S. In 1968, Schwinn began producing the modified Stingray Krate, which led the way to the innovative design era of the 1970s and 1980s. It was in these decades that BMX bikes continually topped seasonal holiday and birthday wish lists of an entire generation of children. Modern BMX Bikes The improvements made in the 1970s and 1980s led to the development of freestyle BMX biking.

This was after steel frames were replaced with lightweight aluminum frames. By the end of the last century, other metals like titanium and magnesium were being used to manufacture BMX bike frames. Lighter bikes allowed for progressively more stunning stunts, and riders could literally fly through the air on these lightweight BMX bikes. From "endos" and "barhops" to the more complex and dangerous "180" or the "tail whip," stunt riders all over the country were now able to use the bike as a means of defying the laws of gravity. BMX Bike Styles BMX biking has spawned a whole slew of different types of BMX biking styles and types of BMX bikes. BMX bikes essentially fall under two categories: freestyle, and the race and dirt jump bikes. Freestyle Freestyle is an extreme sport version of BMX. Freestyle BMX started in California in the mid-1970s, as local teens started using the concrete Escondido River channels near San Diego as locations to ride.

Freestyle disciplines include "flatland," "street," "vert," "park" and "trail." Freestyle BMX bikes are typically equipped with 20-inch wheels and a 20-22 inch long top tube. Surprisingly, freestyle BMX bikes do not always come with brakes, and if they do, they are usually straight cable brakes. Grips come without flanges, because they run the risk of being in the way when certain tricks are being performed. Some riders prefer to buy a ready-made bike, while others prefer to modify a the bike themselves. Different types of freestyle BMX bikes come with variable peg sizes (which attach to the axle of the wheel), except dirt bikes which generally do not have pegs at all unless tricks are being performed. Tire styles depend upon the type of surface being ridden on, with dirt bikers choosing more knobby tires for extra grip on the looser ground. Flatland BMX Spinning and balancing tricks are commonly performed on flat, smooth terrain like asphalt and concrete. Reinforced, shorter wheelbase frames are common among flatland BMX riders who quite often stand on their bikes when performing stunts.

Street BMX Street BMX is the art of riding a BMX bike through, and on, manmade obstacles. They include poles, handrails, steps, ledges, curved walls and architectural oddities. Vert BMX Vert BMX is a style quite often seen on television, in which riders use two half-pipes set apart to perform tricks. Some of the biggest ramps used can be well over 20-feet high. Because of the nature of the half-pipes, riders can use gravity and speed to gain height and perform some incredibly complex tricks. Park BMX Skateparks are not just the domain of skateboarders. Park BMX riders frequent skateparks too, choosing to merge and modify styles depending on the makeup of the park itself. Some parks are made from wood, whereas others are made from concrete. Trail BMX Trail BMX is practiced on a line of jumps made from very compact dirt, which are very similar to the trails used by motocross riders. Four to eight jumps are placed in a row and the trail biker builds a routine, usually in a flowing manner, from one jump to the next.

Race and Dirt Jump BMX Bikes There is no greater thrill for many a BMX biker that watching or participating in off-road BMX racing. This sport, heavily inspired by motocross, is one of the most energetic and risky forms of bicycling in the world. Not only do riders need to ensure that they are safe, they also need to avoid other riders racing along the track. Race bikes are very light BMX bikes with certain special features. Because the BMX race bike is made to go as fast as possible, it usually comes with a padded seat for added comfort, padded bars to protect the rider in case of an accident, and a super sturdy, long frame for safety and stability. All accessories are usually removed as kickstands, chain guards and the like are not needed in racing. Tires are usually double or triple walled for extra strength. BMX Bike Accessories Since BMX biking is not without risk, no matter the style, any rider must equip themselves with certain accessories to avoid injury. Helmets, elbow and knee pads become essential, and not just in the eyes of a parent. Freestyle riders performing tricks will want something between them and solid concrete should they wipe out.

Helmets Helmets are quite possibly the most important accessory any BMX biker needs. Since it protects the brain, a helmet will prevent most head injuries from occurring, whether the terrain is concrete or dirt. According to data from the Brain Injury Association, a helmet will reduce the risk of a brain injury by as much as 88 percent. There are two main types of BMX helmets available, and which to use will come down to the style of BMX. Full Face Helmets Full face helmets are recommended for BMX racing, because they protect the face as well as the sides and back of the head. Anytime a biker is likely to encounter a situation in which his or her face comes into contact with obstacles or other bikers at high speed, facial protection is definitely recommended. Designs by Kali Protective and SixSixOne are examples of full face helmets. Open Face Helmets Open face helmets protect the back and sides of the head without covering the face. This can be useful in freestyle BMX biking, when the facial protection part of a full face helmet limits the wearer's vision. Examples of open face helmets include those made by Bell and ProTec .

Knee and Elbow Pads No matter the style of BMX, knee and elbow pads are vital. Without them, riders run the risk of serious lacerations if they come off their bikes, particularly on concrete. Newer designs are made to be lightweight and unobtrusive while providing protection and, when needed, support. Brands include SixSixOne , G-Form, O'Neal and ProTec . BMX Cycling Shoes For a serious rider, special BMX cycling shoes are a must. Not only do they provide support when riding, they also improve pedaling efficiency. Ankle supports reduce the risk of injury, while laces provide a snug fit. Grips on the bottom of the shoes create traction and some shoes even have a modular insole system, allowing the rider to adjust the sole flexibility. Shimano , Vans and Etnies are all examples of quality BMX shoe brands. How to Buy BMX Bikes on eBay All a buyer has to do to find their perfect BMX bike is to go to the Sporting Goods section on eBay, choose the Outdoor Sports subcategory, then Cycling , followed by Bicycles and Frames , and then BMX Bikes .

On the left side of the listing page you will find the different criteria (Brand, Wheel/Frame Size, Condition) you can use to refine a search. You will also see matching eBay Stores and buying formats (Auction, Buy It Now). If you cannot find the right BMX bike in an initial search, you can also place an ad in the Want it Now part of eBay, or save a search , and choose to be alerted when a matching item listing is posted. The feedback system on eBay is extremely useful when planning to buy a BMX bike, because it indicates the history of the seller. Former buyers have the option to leave feedback after a sale is made, and the results can then be viewed by future potential buyers. It's a good idea to review the reputation of a seller before going ahead with a transaction. Any questions about the item, or the shipping can be addressed to the seller by clicking on the Contact Member link in the seller's profile. If an item does not arrive as expected, the eBay Buyer Protection program will cover the price of the bike and the original shipping costs. You should read up on the terms and conditions of the buyer protection program before going through with the sale.

Conclusion In this guide, the history of the BMX bike was explored, from its origins as a modified regular bike in the 1920s, through the introduction of the first BMX model in the 1960s, and the upgrades in subsequent decades. Accessories were discussed, including helmets, knee and elbow pads as well as cycling shoes, all of which provide protection while riding. BMX enthusiasts, and their parents, will find a large selection of different types of BMX bikes and related accessories on eBay. Tags: Learn about the Different Types of Bikes – West Trails Bicycles Home → Bicycle Info → Choosing a Bike → Bicycle Types Types of Bikes Once you’ve determined where you’ll be riding your bike, how often you’ll ride, whether you have any health concerns, and how much money you have to spend, it’s time to choose the type of bicycle that best fits your needs. Below, you’ll find reviews of some common bicycle types. Road Bikes Designed for high-speed travel on paved surfaces, road bikes feature narrow tires, a short wheelbase, and a lightweight frame. They’re not designed to be ridden on rugged, unpaved surfaces—hence the name “road” bike.

It’s particularly important to make sure your road bike is fit properly, as a poor fit can lead to discomfort and pain. Road bikes can be fitted with cargo racks, lighting systems, and fenders for commuting or touring. Road bike handlebars typically come in one of two styles. Drop-bar handlebars give you many options for hand positioning, which can really make longer rides more enjoyable and less fatiguing. They allow you to change positions, not just of your hands but of your entire upper body. They also provide an aerodynamic position that decreases wind resistance, allowing you to go faster with less energy expended. However, the more streamlined riding position may put a strain on your back. Flat-bar handlebars can offer a more upright position, which for commuting or shorter distance recreational riding might be more appropriate. Touring Bikes If you’re looking to travel long distances and carry extra clothing and gear, consider a touring bike. Built for sustained comfort on the open road, these bikes feature sturdier components, a smoother ride, and lower gears than the average road bike. The lower gears make it possible to pedal heavy loads up steep inclines. Touring bikes have drop-bar handlebars, but they typically put you in a more upright position than road bikes.

Touring bikes also include mounts for racks and fender attachments. Mountain Bikes While they don’t go as fast as road bikes on the road, bike-shop quality mountain bikes are equipped to handle rugged trails and gravel roads. They typically feature lower gears, giving you the ability to climb steep terrain. The straight, wide handlebars give you better steering control and keep your fingers on the brake levers, so you are always at the ready no matter what surprise is around the corner. They also include better breaking systems, lower step-over clearance frames, and wider tires than most road bikes. Some higher priced models also feature lightweight frames. Overall, they are amazingly durable riding in off-road terrain. Although they’re designed to handle off-road riding, mountain bikes can also be a good option for commuting through urban areas. The shock-absorbing qualities of mountain bikes provide stability when riding over potholes, curbs, and other obstacles. If you regularly use a mountain bike on paved roads, you’ll want to consider switching out the knobby tires in favor of semi-slick tires, which do a better job of gripping blacktop and asphalt. Mountain bikes come in two basic varieties—hardtail bikes and full-suspension bikes.

Hardtail bikes have a front suspension fork and a rigid main frame with no rear shocks. They are much less expensive than their full-suspension counterparts. Full-suspension bikes feature both front- and rear-suspension shocks, making them ideal for backcountry adventures and traversing more technical trails. These bikes are heavier and more expensive than their hardtail counterparts, but the added suspension and sturdier frame can handle more aggressive riding and make riding easier on your spine and sit-bones. Hybrids A cross between road bikes and mountain bikes, hybrids offer a nice blend of comfort, speed, and durability. Good for short trips on paved roads—they make an excellent choice for commuting to work, exploring your city, or taking a leisurely ride through your local park. Hybrids offer the upright handlebar position that many people favor, and many come with suspension forks for an even smoother ride. They feature slimmer frames than mountain bikes, but are typically sturdier than road bikes. Hybrids also have narrower tires than mountain bikes, allowing them to travel faster on paved roads. However, they are generally not as fast as road bikes, and they lack the gear range of most mountain bikes.

Comfort Bikes Designed to emphasize comfort and ease of handling, comfort bikes provide an excellent option for riding around flat neighborhoods and bike paths. Most come with ergonomic seats that put the rider in a relaxed, upright sitting position. Many comfort bikes have large tires, allowing riders to traverse gravel and dirt roads, as well as pavement. Some styles also feature bigger wheels and front suspension forks for an extra-smooth ride. Commuter Bikes Designed with urban streets in mind, commuter bikes feature sturdy frames and an upright riding position that lets you make better eye contact with motorists. Many include racks, lighting systems, and fenders. BMX Bikes BMX bikes are made for competition biking on trails and courses. These single-gear bikes feature a lower profile than most bikes and include knobby tires with cable-operated caliper brakes on the front and rear. While they are great for street riding, dirt racing, and jumping ramps, the low seat position is generally uncomfortable for commuting over any distance. Cyclocross Bikes Cyclocross racing involves taking laps around a course that includes a variety of surface types such as pavement, dirt, gravel, and grass. Along the way, riders must dismount and carry their bikes around obstacles in the course.

Cyclocross bikes are relatively lightweight, yet tough enough to handle extreme conditions. They feature knobby tires that can provide traction in various types of terrain. Folding Bikes When you’re traveling and storage space is limited, folding bikes make an excellent option. These lightweight yet sturdy bikes fold up for easy storage on boats, planes, trains, and automobiles. Folding bikes also make a good choice for commuters with limited storage space at home or in the office. Fixed-Gear Bikes Fixed-gear bikes, or fixies, lack the freewheel mechanism that allows riders to coast. They have only one gear. Traditionally associated with track cycling, fixed-gear bikes have gained popularity with urban biking enthusiasts for their light weight, low maintenance, and simple riding style. Electric-Assist Bikes Great for commuters who don’t want to arrive to work sweaty and out of breath, electric assist bikes feature battery-powered motors to help make climbing hills and travelling long distances a little easier. You can adjust the amount of assistance you receive from the motor—built-in sensors monitor how much pressure you’re putting on the pedals and apply battery power accordingly. These bikes are heavier than most bikes, making them a little harder to ride when the motor is turned off.

Tandem Bikes Tandem bikes feature an extra seat and a second set of pedals, allowing two people to ride together. These bikes offer a fun way for families and couples to get around—especially when one rider is weaker than the other. Recumbent Bikes Recumbent bikes place you in a reclined position with the pedals forward. Some find these bikes to be more comfortable than their upright counterparts, as the natural position requires less flexibility and your weight is more evenly distributed across both the back and buttocks. They can be fitted with windshields to handle headwinds and improve aerodynamic performance. However, recumbent bikes are generally heavier and can’t match the performance of upright, racing-style bikes. They are difficult to manage at low speeds, especially when riding up steep hills. They also make you less visible to other motorists and are typically more expensive the average bike. Cruisers If you’re looking for a comfortable bike with a classic look, consider a cruiser. The bicycle standard from the 1930s through 1950s, cruisers feature wide tires and padded seats for a more comfortable riding experience. Curved, upright handlebars put the rider in a better position to view the world around them.

Cruisers typically have heavier frames, but some newer models use lightweight aluminum frames. The traditional cruiser has just one gear, but more modern cruisers come with three to seven speeds. Also called beach bikes or boulevardiers, these classic bikes work best on flat terrain. Utility/Cargo Bikes Perfect for hauling groceries, camping gear, and other items—utility and cargo bikes feature a sturdy, elongated frame with heavy-duty storage racks over the rear tires. A variety of accessories can be hooked onto the rear rack, such as baskets, child seats, and panniers to hold your gear. The upright seating position gives you a good view of the road, the rims have extra spokes for additional strength, and the wider tires offer a more stable ride. Other Bikes Of course, the above list isn’t exhaustive. You’ll find a number of additional bike styles including unicycles, scooters, trikes, and more. Each new bike type opens you up to new challenges as a rider. If you have questions about a bike style that isn’t listed above, stop by West Trails Bicycles and ask for help.

Types of Bikes | City or Commuter Bikes Kids’ Bikes It can’t be repeated often enough: The most important characteristic of your bike is that you love riding it! And the most important thing about loving your bike is how well suits your riding needs and how comfortably it fits your body. This guide to bike styles and materials will answer a few basic questions. However, there is no substitute for discussing your riding needs and goals with someone who really knows bikes and has lots of riding experience, testing different bike styles and setups, and getting fit properly. All of that takes time, is best done in person, and is totally worth it. A good bike is an investment. It can save you a lot of money on gas or transit fares. It can save your health! Please treat your bike like a pet. Exercise it. Take care of it. Try to keep it clean. Bring it inside with you, if possible. Frame Materials – Bike frames can be made of steel alloys, aluminum, and carbon. Steel. Steel offers a sturdy, smooth – even silky – ride.

With steel you get what you pay for: cheap steel (such as that found in a department store bike) is very heavy; good steel (such as that found in a good road bike) is light and makes the bike more expensive. Aluminum. Aluminum is generally lighter than steel and offers a stiffer, more playful ride. Many aluminum bikes have a carbon fork to help with vibration control. Carbon. Carbon is very lightweight and offers a responsive ride with good vibration control. It is a more expensive material than aluminum or steel. When testing bikes (especially road bikes), ride bikes in different materials to see which offers you the ride characteristic that suits you best. You may be surprised! Road Bikes – road bikes are designed for higher speed riding on smooth roads. They have narrow, slick, high pressures tires, and “drop” (curved over) handle bars that allow a very aggressive (that is, powerful) head-forward riding position for the best aerodynamics and sprinting strength. High-end road bikes often have very “quick” handling, for maneuvering in races.

Road bikes usually have integrated brake/shift levers on the top ends of the bars – thus racers can shift and brake at the same time without lifting their hands, and with the hands on top of the brake hoods or in the sprinting drop position. Integrated brake-shift levers also make it easier to downshift when climbing standing on the pedals and to shift to a lower gear while braking for a stoplight. You don’t have to be a racer to ride a road bike. The top ends of the bars, called “hoods, ” are a remarkably comfortable place to put your hands and keep you riding in a more upright, relaxed position. You may spend most of your time riding with hands on the hoods and very little time bent over in the drops. Mountain Bikes – Mountain bikes are designed for off-road riding. They have a flat handlebar suited for a more upright riding position. Thus, they are very comfortable to ride and highly maneuverable at low speeds. But they are not as aerodynamic as a road bike. Mountain bikes have very wide, knobby tires suitable for riding over dirt, mud, sand, and even snow.

Some mountain bikes have large (29 inch) wheels or “suspension” (shock absorbers) to make riding over rocks and obstacles easy. Mountain bikes have a wide range of gears suited for very slow riding on narrow trails and ascending very steep hills. Most mountain bikes have push button shifting or twist-grip shifting on the end of the handlebars. The wide, lower-pressure tires on mountain bikes are very comfortable over bumps and are highly puncture resistant. Virtually all modern mountain bikes have disk brakes – sometimes mechanical, sometimes hydraulic. Compared to a road bike, it’s a lot more work to go the same distance on a mountain bike. The big knobby tires have a lot of rolling resistance; the upright riding position is not aerodynamic; and the suspension and extra-sturdy frames add extra weight, which makes it harder to climb hills at high speed. Thus, mountain bikes are not usually used for long commutes or road rides. Mountain bikes can be a good starting bike for people who haven’t ridden much before. The wide range of gears and extra traction makes riding up hills easier for people who are starting out. Plus mountain bikes look badass, even if you’re a little out of shape.

There are great mountain bike trails in our area, at Rosaryville state park, Fairland regional park and elsewhere. We need your help opening up more areas for mountain biking, including Greenbelt National Park, Greenbelt’s north woods, and other areas. Mountain bike clubs do a great job keeping trails clear and preventing erosion. Join one, and lobby for more trail access! Cyclocross Bikes – CX is a form of racing on tracks with lots of different surfaces: grass, asphalt, cobblestones, dirt, gravel, mud, sand. The race courses often have straightaways on hard surfaces where you can go very fast, but also slower technical sections. They have obstacles or stairsteps where riders have to dismount and carry their bikes. CX bikes are very fun to ride. They’re fast, and have drop handlebars and integrated brake hood shifters, and you can take a fairly aggressive riding position like a road bike. But they can also handle lots of road surfaces. They have medium-sized tires, with small knobs, so they can grip on bad surfaces, but there’s not nearly as much rolling resistance and weight as a mountain bike in the straightaways. Some CX bikes now have disc brakes like mountain bikes.

Touring Bikes – touring bikes are designed for long rides with heavy loads. Touring bikes usually come with disc brakes, which are good for stopping under heavy loads and perform very well in wet conditions. They also have and front and rear racks for panniers. Touring bikes often have slick tires for riding on smooth roads, but often these tires are wider and more durable and flat-resistant than road racing tires. Some touring tires have rain channels for better handling in wet conditions, but few have knobs like mountain bikes, because the extra rolling resistance would be unbearable on long rides. Touring bikes usually have drop handlebars, so you can drop down into a more aero position when riding into the wind. But some off-road touring bikes (sometimes called trekking or expedition bikes) have flat handlebars and wider tires designed for rougher roads and trails. Cargo Bikes – Cargo bikes are like touring bikes with an extra long rear rack for heavy gear, and even wider tires and stronger frames for more durability and weight support. Commuting long distances on a cargo bike might be tough for all but the strongest riders, although lots of people do it! I’ve seen cargo bikes loaded with multiple kids and trailers, full sets of work tools and supplies etc.

Some cargo bikes are rated for several hundred pounds of carrying capacity. As long as you’re not trying to go too fast, they are extremely useful. City, Commuter Bikes, and Fixed Gear – urban bikes and commuter bikes usually have a combination of features. Most have flat handlebars and an upright riding position, with push button or twist-grip shifting. Most have medium-sized tires with high durability – some have disc brakes, some use rim brakes. Some have racks for mounting panniers built in, or have baskets in the front. They are usually quite rugged, but not as heavy as mountain bikes. Sometimes urban bike have fewer gears for easy maintenance, or are single speed. Fixed-gear bikes are single-speed bikes that don’t coast – you backpedal to slow up (some have a front brake to assist). Fixed-gear bikes are fun to ride, but require a lot of concentration and strength, because you can’t just slam on the brakes. Comfort Bikes – sometimes called “cruisers,” these bikes are designed for slower riding in an upright position. As their name implies, they are designed to be as comfortable to ride as possible.

They may have a wide range of gears so that you can climb the steepest hills with ease, or they may be single speed for the flats. Cruisers usually range from single speed to 7 gears. Kids Bikes – Kids bikes come in wheel sizes ranging from 12″ to 24″. Department store kids bikes tend to be heavy and essentially disposable due to low end components (once they break, they can’t be fixed). Many quality bike brands (like Jamis, Kona, and Felt) make kids bikes that are miniature versions of adult bikes, so they’re lighter, they’ll perform well and can be repaired when there’s a problem. These bikes can be passed down to younger kids in the family. A great kids bike can jumpstart a healthy lifestyle right through their teenage years.

4 Responses to Types of Bikes Brian Touring, BMX, mountain bicycle � searching for good sport bicycle wholesalers UK - Page 1 - Wholesale Forum 8 Times in 8 Posts 22 Jan 2011 02:54 AM #2 First, congratulations on being in the position to expand your business One place I would recommend doing some research on touring bicycle wholesalers in the UK is the Bicycle Association of Great Britain . The BA-GB provides good info about the different types of bicycles (BMX, touring, mountain), where to ride and bike distributors. You may also want to speak with Seventies Distributor . Seventies can really help you out with bike components such as bar ends, chain tensioners, cranks, hubs, sprockets, pedals and frames. Seventies Distributor also sells apparel and cycle DVDs. The Bike Depot UK is a good supplier. They have different styles of bikes including touring and sport cycles such as mountain bikes. The Moulton Bicycle Company is in the UK and has a great reputation for delivering strong customer support and top of the line touring bicycles.

Mongoose Bicycles | eBay Mongoose Bicycles Showing slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES} - Shop by Gender Go to previous slide - Shop by Gender Go to next slide - Shop by Gender Shop by Color Showing slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES} - Shop by Color Go to previous slide - Shop by Color Go to next slide - Shop by Color Save on Mongoose Bicycles Trending Price is based on prices over last 90 days. Showing slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES} - Save on Mongoose Bicycles Go to previous slide - Save on Mongoose Bicycles Go to next slide - Save on Mongoose Bicycles Best Selling Trending Price is based on prices over last 90 days.

Showing slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES} - Best Selling Go to previous slide - Best Selling Go to next slide - Best Selling Limited Time Deals Showing slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES} - Limited Time Deals Go to previous slide - Limited Time Deals Go to next slide - Limited Time Deals Results in Mongoose Bicycles 29 in Mongoose Men's Dual Suspension Mountain Bike Ledge 3.5, White This men's mountain bike also has suspension fork that smooths bumps and increases control gearing. It has 21 speeds choose from, so you can master every slope, hill and climb. It also features a Shimano rear derailleur for precise shifting of the gears. The Mongoose 27.5 rider is a bike that will take you to the trails and to school. With 21 speeds and a Shimano rear derailleur. nothing you can't do on a Mongoose. $134.99 20 in Mongoose Boy's BMX Freestyle Bike Data X 2.2, Black Grey The Mongoose data x 2.2 is the perfect freestyle bike to do tricks and grinds.

Equipped with a lightweight freestyle frame and fork, alloy 36 spoke wheels, 360 degree freestyle rotor system, alloy 4 bolt front load stem, alloy caliper front brake and rear U brake. 29 in Mongoose Men's hard Tail Mountain Bike Proxy, Matte Grey The Mongoose Proxy HD 29" Men's Mountain Bike features a light weight aluminum frame and alloy rims with quick quick release wheel plus 21 speeds for all types of riding. Disc brakes provide great braking power and it's designed with a comfortable but athletic riding position. $199.99 Mongoose Boys Mountain Bike Bicycle 20" Aluminum Frame Full Suspension NEW The seven-speed Mongoose with Shimano rear derailleur and twist shifters has precise easy shifting. The aluminum suspension frame and alloy rims give the bike stability and reduce the weight. The full suspension frame absorbs the big bumps and glides over the small ones. 20 in Mongoose Boy's BMX Freestyle Bike Mode 900, Maroon A full 4130 chromoly frame, fork and handlebar along with double wall rims set the Mode 900 above all the rest.

From beginner to pro, this bike has all of the features a rider could ask for including a 14mm rear axle. 27.5" Mongoose Aluminum Frame Men's Mountain Bike, Blue/Green. 21-speed twist shifters with Shimano rear. Aluminum full suspension frame and fork. Mountain style athletic seat. Alloy linear pull brakes. $157.08 20" Mongoose Rebel Freestyle Boys20 " Mongoose Rebel Freestyle Boys BM' BMX Bike Well hello Mag wheels, Yow! What a look with a little flash and just the right amount of sizzle. The Mongoose Rebel is a sweet BMX bike with a look that is the hook. The riding the Rebel will let your inner Mongoose out to show the haters what is what in the neighborhood. $153.95 Rocky Mountain Touring Bikes for Sale We couldn't find any bicycles that matched your search criteria. You might have better luck starting off with a different type or try a location search for bicycles in your area. Related Searches

Question: Mountain, touring, and BMX are all types of what?
Answer: Bicycles